Traditional Etiquette: Men's 'Ladies First' Points Quiz

What traditional gesture did gentlemen show when women entered or exited the room?

In which situations did gentlemen used to follow the 'Ladies First' rule?

Why do many men avoid following the 'Ladies First' rule in certain public situations?

What change was made to the 'Ladies First' rule in regards to giving up seats on public transportation?

In what context is following the 'Ladies First' rule still recommended according to the text?

According to Dr. Samantha Boardman, what does a man's behavior towards a woman at the beginning indicate?

Why does the author appreciate when someone opens or holds a door for them?

According to Elisabeth von Thurn und Taxis, what should a man's good manners not be about?

Based on the advice in the text, what should a man do on a first date?

What is the reason a man should pay the bill on a first date?

According to the Vogue book excerpt, what is the reason men are expected to show deference towards women?

Traditional "Ladies First" Points

When men wore hats, they took them off in a woman's presence as a sign of respect.
A gentleman stands up when a woman enters or exits the room, or arrives or leaves the dining table, whether at home or in a restaurant.
He holds a woman's chair for her as a courtesy.
He pays for dinner as a sign of kindness and respect.
A gentleman yields to a woman through any doorway as a sign of respect.
A man shakes a woman's hand or kisses her cheek only when she offers it first.

Modern Take on "Ladies First"

In public, many men may not follow the "Ladies First" rule to avoid appearing chauvinistic, but in personal situations like dating, it is still recommended.
A woman's expectations of a man's behavior on a date can indicate how she will be treated in the future.
Good manners, such as opening or holding doors, are signs of civility and decency.

Dos and Don'ts on a Date

On a first date, a man should pick up the woman at her door and walk her back to her door after as a sign of respect.
A man should pay the bill, especially if he did the asking, but within his financial means.

Courtesy and Kindness

Good manners are about showing courtesy and kindness, not trying to earn a smile or thank-you.
A man's good manners will be registered and appreciated, regardless of a woman's reaction.
Men's good manners should not imply that a woman is weak or helpless, but rather show respect and admiration.

Test your knowledge of the traditional 'Ladies First' etiquette points that men have been taught over the years. From hat etiquette to paying for dinner, see how well you know these customary behaviors.